Twin sawed-off barrels mean an extremely wide spread capable of taking down multiple targets in a single shot, but zero effectiveness beyond melee range. This weapon makes its first appearance in Gears of War 3.

A single shot weapon, the Sawed-Off Shotgun's power is tempered by a long reload time and short range. Should a potential target be any further than this range, they can take next to no damage leaving you with an empty gun and an angry hostile gunning for you. For this reason it is wise to retreat after each shot, regardless of whether or not your target was killed. It has a very limited range so it is practically useless at long range. It is however a very powerful close-range weapon.

Tips

Since this gun is able to hit 180 degrees wide there is no need to aim down the site, just hip fire and make sure your facing them

Make your shot count, due to the high reload time you could be left vulnerable for a good 3-5 seconds if you miss.

Tight hallways and low visibility give the Sawed-off an advantage; enemies are forced closer than they normally might be.

The Sawed-off shotgun actually has a longer instant kill range than the Gnasher, but the Sawed-off is unable to do damage beyond that distance.

If you miss an enemy with the Sawed-off shotgun then run away or seek cover. Reload and then face your foe again.

Weapon Variants

Variant

How to Unlock It

Chrome Sawed-Off Shotgun

Have earned any one of the Achievements in the PC version of the original Gears of War.

Crimson Omen Sawed-Off Shotgun

Earn the "Welcome to Arcade Mode" achievement.

Flaming Sawed-Off Shotgun

The Flaming Sawed-Off Shotgun was a reward available in the Gears of War 3 . Complete one match during the week of May 2 to unlock this weapon variant.

Gold Sawed-Off Shotgun

Beat Gears of War (the original) on Insane difficulty, or earn the "Veteran Gear" achievement in Gears of War 2.